Did You Know You Can Fly Fish in Arizona? The 7 Best Places

The southwest region of the United States is rapidly gaining popularity for relocation, attracting people from around the world with its appealing weather, job opportunities, and a plethora of outdoor activities. While many know the fantastic opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, climbing, and skiing (yes, we have skiing in the desert!), the quality fisheries often go unnoticed. Whether you're in search of bass in expansive lakes or keen on hiking through backcountry streams for trout, the fishing in the southwest should not be underestimated.

When it comes to the best fishing in the southwest, Arizona deserves to be at the top of the list. With its mountain streams and vast freshwater lakes, the state offers a variety of angling experiences that will satisfy the desires of many anglers. Here is a list of the 7 best places for fly fishing in Arizona, complete with maps for easy navigation:

LEE’S FERRY AREA OF THE COLORADO RIVER

Situated on the Colorado River near Page in Northern Arizona, Lee’s Ferry is an unsurprising top choice for those familiar with the state. This tailwater fishery stretches over 15 miles downstream from Lake Powell to the northern Grand Canyon. The proximity to the canyon, along with consistently clear and cool water at around 50 degrees F, makes it an excellent destination. The stunning red sandstone cliffs accompany anglers as they seek out wild rainbow trout. This intriguing river offers a diverse range of features such as riffles, gravel bars, and deep pools, making it a dream come true for fly anglers.

The fishing remains active year-round, with summer being the busiest due to the cool water. During late fall and winter, rainbow trout engage in spawning activities, providing an opportunity for sight fishing. However, fishing can be challenging in spring due to the snow melt around Lake Powell. For the best access to the Colorado River in Arizona, head to Lee’s Ferry, especially during the offseason to avoid crowds.

When it comes to fly gear, nymphs are highly effective, particularly midge flies in cream or red colors that imitate larvae, pupae, and adults. While occasional mayflies, stoneflies, and caddis flies can be found, sticking to midges in sizes 14-20 generally yields good results. A 5 or 6-weight rod is recommended for this river, along with a 7 to 9-foot leader for nymphing, including an indicator.

 

SALT RIVER ARIZONA – RAINBOW TROUT HAVEN

Merely 25 miles from Phoenix, the Salt River offers a convenient fishing spot for those on winter holidays. This tailwater flows below the Saguaro Lake and provides cold water sourced from the lake's depths. While most of the river supports rainbow trout, it's primarily a stocked stream with some holdovers. The fishing conditions can be tough during dry years with lower flows, but when the watershed receives sufficient rain, it becomes highly productive.

Trout fishing in the desert might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the Salt River defies expectations. Among the popular fishing spots on the Salt River are User's Water Recreational Area, Coon Bluff, Goldfield, and Phon D. Sutton. It's advisable to give the fish some time to settle after stocking by avoiding immediate visits.

Fly fishing gear for the Salt River includes a 4 or 5-weight rod, a 7 or 8-foot leader for nymphing, and a 9 to 12-foot leader for dry fly fishing. Various hatches occur throughout the year, such as Blue Winged Olives, Tricos, Blue Quills, and caddis flies. During summer, ants, grasshoppers, and beetles become prevalent. When struggling to find fish in winter, using a midge fly as a searching pattern can be effective. Recommended flies include Blue Winged Olive, Elk Wing Caddis, and English Pheasant Tail.

 

OAK CREEK – A PICTURESQUE TROUT PARADISE

Oak Creek, running through Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, offers one of the most visually stunning fishing experiences on this list. This beautiful and clear trout stream transports anglers to an idyllic setting, making it easy to forget they are in the heart of Arizona. Trout in Oak Creek are stocked from the Page Springs Fish Hatchery, and while the water warms up near Grasshopper Point, the trout survive throughout the year.

Oak Creek boasts a diverse population of rainbow, brown, and brook trout, with brook trout being primarily found in the North Fork due to the higher elevation. Pocket water and riffles abound in this stream, but it's important to be aware of fishing regulations, as certain sections between Junipine Resort and the West Fork Trail require single hook, barbless, and catch-and-release practices. For fishing locations, the West Fork is likely the most productive spot, known for its wild brown trout fishing accessible via a hike, which lends a secluded mountain stream ambiance. Starting at Grasshopper Point is another option, with a suggestion to eventually work one's way to the West Fork. Oak Creek offers plenty of water to explore beyond these spots, with the North Fork meeting the West Fork at Cave Springs, and the river flowing through Sedona before joining the Verde River.

Fly fishing gear for Oak Creek involves a 4 or 5-weight rod, as it is a true trout stream that requires careful selection of spots and reading of the water. Challenges await even the most experienced anglers, but the rewards are plentiful. Flies such as small Blue Winged Olives (size 20), Caddis flies, Sedges, and imitations of freshwater shrimp during specific hatches can prove effective.

 

BLACK RIVER – SEEKING SERENITY IN THE WHITE MOUNTAINS

For those seeking respite from the heat of Phoenix, the Black River in the White Mountains near Show Low, AZ, provides an excellent escape. Stretching 114 miles, this river holds various fish species and presents a beautiful landscape even if catching fish proves challenging. Similar to Oak Creek, the Black River experiences reduced water levels in late summer and fall. The upper sections of the river are home to Apache Cutthroat, a prized fish for many anglers in the southwest. The lower section boasts smallmouth bass and brown trout. Most areas of the river are accessible via forestry roads, and fishing is best during spring, summer, and fall.

Caution must be exercised when casting, as the surrounding bushes can lead to frustration if not careful.

 

SILVER CREEK – A CATCH-AND-RELEASE GEM

Located in Northern Arizona near Show Low, Silver Creek is a two-mile stream owned by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, ensuring ample access for anglers. While wading can be challenging, fishing from the banks is productive. Silver Creek is known for hosting Apache and Rainbow trout, including some impressively sized specimens. Catch and release regulations are in effect from October to March 31st, allowing for an opportunity to experience the larger trout Arizona has to offer. A 4 or 5-weight rod is suitable for this creek, and a major fight should be expected when targeting the large fish.

Recommended flies include Blue Winged Olives, blood midges, and leech streamer patterns.

 

EAST CLEAR CREEK – A SMALL STREAM TROUT HAVEN

Situated near the Mogollon Rim in Payson,AZ, East Clear Creek is a small but ideal trout fishery that branches off from the Little Colorado River. Access to the creek is best found via forest roads along Highway 87. Fishing around Kinder Crossing and gradually moving downstream is recommended. The creek offers a mix of wild rainbow and brown trout, with riffles, deep pools, and numerous runs throughout its course. Hatches on Clear Creek include BWOs, Tricos, Little Black Caddis, and Sedges. A smaller 4 or 5-weight setup is suitable for navigating the tight spaces of Clear Creek. Anglers will find themselves challenged by this beautiful mountain stream.

 

BRIGHT ANGEL CREEK – BREATHTAKING SCENERY + TROUT FISHING

A list of Arizona's top fly fishing destinations wouldn't be complete without mentioning the Grand Canyon. Bright Angel Creek, located in the North Rim, is not easily accessible but rewards those who make the effort. A seven-mile hike along the South Kaibab Trail, involving a 5,000-foot elevation change, leads to the creek from the South Rim. The stream hosts wild rainbow and brown trout measuring between 12 and 18 inches. Effective techniques include using BWOs and nymphs to fish the pocket water. Any easily packable rod is suitable for this remote creek.

 

BIG BONITO CREEK – TROUT AND BASS FLY FISHING

Located in Apache Country, Big Bonito Creek holds bass, rainbow, brown, and Apache trout. This 11-mile stream requires a permit from the Apache Tribe to fish and is accessed via reservation roads Y40, 55, and 70. These roads are mostly dirt, so it's important to consider your vehicle's capabilities. Some hiking may be necessary to access the creek, which is filled with boulders and offers successful pool fishing. Trout ranging from 14 to 16 inches and smallmouth bass can be found in the lower sections. A 6-weight rod is recommended for those targeting both bass and trout. Poppers and larger streamers are effective for bass, while trout can be enticed by streamers, BWOs, blood midges, and other patterns. Fishing on Big Bonito Creek is best from May to October, with slower fishing during hot weather.

Fly Fishing Clubs in Arizona:

For those seeking a community of fellow fly fishing enthusiasts, two notable clubs in Arizona are:

• Payson Flycasters: Located near the Mogollon Rim, this club provides an excellent option for anglers interested in exploring Northern Arizona. More information can be found on their website.

• Arizona Flycasters: This club is based in Phoenix and offers a great opportunity for individuals in the greater Phoenix area to learn about fly fishing in Arizona. For more details, visit their website.

Fly Fishing Guides and Other Fishing Resources in Arizona:

• Fly Fish Arizona: This guide service offers trips to various locations across Arizona. Their website provides further information.

• Orvis: centrally located in the valley right off of Camelback. This store has everything you need to complete your outfit and kit. But the most valuable thing are the staff members. They are super knowledgeable, incredibly friendly, and stoked to give you some insight Beta on where to go what to fish, when to go, etc..

• Arizona State Parks and Trails: The official website of the State of Arizona offers information on where to fish, stocking schedules, and fishing regulations. Visit their website for more details.

My Fly Fishing Setup

This is the staple setup that I use for 95% of all my fly-fishing trips. I may change it up based on where I am headed and what I am fishing.

Fly Rod/Reel Combo(s):

• Redington Path Fly Rod Combo Kit with Pre-Spooled Crosswater Reel, Medium-Fast Action Rod. 5 wt 9 ft. Buy on Amazon | Buy at Bass Pro Shop

• Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod Outfit - 5,6,8 Weight Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Starter Kit with Large Arbor Reel and Case. Buy on Amazon | Buy at Bass Pro Shop

Clothing:

• Pants: Orvis Jackson Quick-Dry Pant | Kuhl Renegade Rock Pant

• Shirts: Arc'teryx Cormac Hoodie | Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoodie | Free Fly Men's Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie

• Footwear: Chaco Z/2 Classic Sandals | Simms Flyweight Access Wading Boots | Simms Flyweight Neoprene Wet-Wading Socks

• Waders: Orvis Pro Breathable Stocking-Foot Waders

Packs and Bags:

• Backpack: Gregory Zulu 65 | Gregory Alpaca Duffel 45

• Fishing Pack: Orvis Sling Pack | Orvis Chest/Hip Pack

Accessories:

Umpqua River Grip Zing/Nipper/Hemo | Yellowstone Fly Goods Fly Agra Floatant | Orvis Superstrong Plus Tippet | Orvis Leaders | Nomadix Bandana Towel | Nomadix Poncho Towel |

How to Hike to Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona

So you're thinking of visiting Sedona? You're about to go on an incredible journey. The red pillars are among the most spectacular sights I've seen while hiking. It's one of the most beautiful spots I've ever seen. One of the best things to do in Sedona is hike Cathedral Rock which is why it made our Top 6 Hikes in Sedona.

Sedona is a place where you simply must go outside. Cathedral Rock Trail is one of my favorite Sedona hikes due to it's challenges. 

Everything you need to know about climbing Cathedral Rock in Sedona is right here!

Details of the crazy trees along this hike

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAIL?

The greatest time to hike Cathedral Rock Trail is without a doubt in the hours leading up to dusk. There are great views of Sedona from the top, and it is even more magical at sunset.

If you plan on lingering at the summit until sunset, carry a headlamp to assist you in descending the trail. You'll need your hands to get down the trail's steeper sections.

The best time of year to hike cathedral rock is fall to early spring for cooler temps and less crowds.

HOW TO GET TO THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAILHEAD IN SEDONA

Cathedral Rock is one of the most popular Sedona hikes. There are multiple trailheads that lead to Cathedral Rock but we found Cathedral Rock Trailhead No. 170 to be the closest.
Cathedral Rock Trail Head Coordinates: 34°49’30.7″N 111°47’18.3″W

The parking lot is a lot busier during the more popular hiking times. Typically, the earlier you are there, the easier parking will be.

There is overflow parking further down on Back O’Beyond Road.

DIRECTIONS TO THE CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAILHEAD

Head south on the junction of 89A and 179. Drive 179 south for about 3.5 miles until you reach Back O’ Beyond Road on the right. Then go approximately .6 miles. The parking lot turnout is on the left.

Note: There is a $5 cost for the Red Rock Pass for parking. The America the Beautiful Pass is also a valid parking pass.

CATHEDRAL ROCK VIA THE BALDWIN TRAILHEAD

There is an alternate way to get to Cathedral Rock if you want a longer and more scenic hike. It starts from the Baldwin Trailhead. The trail is 3.7 miles round trip, and it takes about 1.5 hours to get to the top of Cathedral Rock.

This route will have wonderful views of the west side of Cathedral Rock as you start your hike.

CATHEDRAL ROCK HIKE

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO HIKE CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA?

Cathedral Rock in Sedona will take 30-40 minutes if you hike at a moderate to fast pace. It will take roughly 60 minutes to hike to the top if you hike slower, if you are hiking with children, if you take some breaks along the route, or if you stop to take photos.

I would recommend planning for about 3-4 hours for the entire adventure.

TRAIL STATS –

• Length: 1.2 miles
• Elevation Gain: 744 feet
• Route Type: Out & Back
• Difficulty: Moderate

CLIMBING CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA

In general, the Cathedral Rock route is simple to follow. Along the trail, there are basket cairns packed with rocks to direct you. The trail begins with a dried-up creek, followed by a short ascent to a plateau.

The plateau region offers stunning views over the Sedona area and is an excellent location for photographing Cathedral Rock in the background.

You'll climb up through the scramble from there. It's a little crag that you'll have to climb on your hands and knees to get to. This is the most difficult section of the hike, but if you go slow and steady, you'll be OK. The crack is about 40 feet long and has a 45-degree incline.

After the scramble, you'll come to another plateau, which is an excellent area to pause and snap photos if you want to. You'll continue climbing Cathedral Rock from there. There are few stone steps at the summit that will lead you to the top.

The end of the trail has a sign saying, “End of Trail”, but the views alone will tell you that you are there!

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CATHEDRAL ROCK HIKE?

Although the hike to the summit of Cathedral Rock is short, it does include some steep sections. The Cathedral Rock Trail has certain sections where you must scramble over the rocks using your hands and feet.

For most people, it is not too much of a challenge to climb over the boulders, but this could be difficult depending on the physical abilities of those you are hiking with. The trail is well broken in with places for hand and footholds in the rock making the climb a little easier. Make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes or even better ---> CHACOS!!!

AT THE TOP

At the summit, there is a ledge that wraps around the top making a lot of places to explore and room for everyone. There is a very large drop-off at the top, but the ledge is pretty wide to have safe places for kids to sit.

The highlight and favorite viewpoint is off to the far right after you have reached the summit viewing area. There is a fun ledge that is a great place to take pictures and enjoy the views. It is known by some as the Edge of the World. There is a high and steep drop-off here so be careful.

HEADING DOWN THE TRAIL

There are some spots you will need to slide down on the rocks, but overall, the hike down is pretty easy going and simple to follow - just keep an eye out for the baslets of rocks that you passed by on the way up.

As you head down Cathedral Rock be sure to notice the beautiful views in the distance. Courthouse Butte will be visible as well as Sedona.

SEDONA GUIDED TOURS

Sedona is a lovely destination with plenty of options for independent exploration. However, with so many energy vortexes and gorgeous sites to visit, it can be tough to determine where to spend your time and easy to overlook many of Sedona's unique attractions.

If you want the best Sedona tour with a lot of flexibility, I suggest booking a guided tour with Sedona Spirit Journeys.

During this highly recommended tour, an experienced guide will teach about the area’s sacred nature and energy vortexes as well as the history and geology of the area. This is a great way to see everything Sedona has to offer.

The best part of it all? You pick your stops and then sit back and relax!

HIKING TIPS FOR CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA

• PLAN TO HIKE EARLY IN THE MORNING OR AT SUNSET - These two times of day will give you the best lighting and will help you beat the crowds.

• CHECK WHAT TIME SUNSET IS - Check to see what time sunset is expected for that day if you want to be there for sunset. To reach to the summit, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time. Depending on how quickly you hike, it normally takes 30-60 minutes.

• If you are planning on staying at the top of Cathedral Rock until sunset, make sure to bring some sort of flashlight to get down. Headlamps are the best so you can have your hands-free climbing down the rock.

• USE YOUR AMERICAN THE BEAUTIFUL ANNUAL PASS - The American the Beautiful Pass is honored for the daily pass for parking for all the Sedona trails.  If you do not have a pass, you can purchase a pass for $5.00 at the fee machines at designated trailheads.

• BE PREPARED - This includes sunscreen, plenty of water, and snacks. Don’t be fooled into thinking the hike is only a mile. The pathway is steep and narrow in places making it more difficult. There is also little to no shade on the trail.

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CAN YOU SEE CATHEDRAL ROCK IN SEDONA WITHOUT HIKING?

Whether you can see Cathedral Rock without hiking depends on what you are wanting to see. You can see the Cathedral Rock formation from below. Hikers will not be able to see the panoramic valley views or cradle of Cathedral Rock. You can only get to those by hiking to the top.

If you want to see Cathedral Rock from a distance, the Templeton Trail is a good alternative. Also, you can climb to the first plateau for a great picture area without making the steep ascent through the crack.

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IS CATHEDRAL ROCK TRAIL DOG FRIENDLY?

Cathedral Rock is dog-friendly if the dogs are kept on a leash. There are some big steps and boulders to climb through, so it is recommended that your dog have hiking experience. In my opinion, once you get to the rock-climbing portion it really is not an ideal hike for dogs unless your dog has a high level of physical abilities.

LET'S TALK ABOUT THE VORTEX

Sedona is a lovely destination to visit where you can easily connect with nature. Some visitors travel to Sedona in search of powerful vortex encounters. Cathedral Rock is said to be one of Sedona's four vortexes.

This vortex energy is one of many reasons why people hike the Cathedral Rock Trail. This energy is meant to calm, inspire and ground you.

No matter what your beliefs, Cathedral Rock is a place that will make you feel something. Whether it is outer-worldly spirits or awe and appreciation for the beautiful world we live in, a climb to the top is well worth your time.

OTHER HIKING TRAILS IN SEDONA

Hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona is my favorite trails in the area but there is still plenty of other fun and beautiful hikes to explore in the area. We recommend picking a hike or two every day because it is such a beautiful area to enjoy.

BIRTHING CAVE

• Hiking the Birthing Cave in Sedona is another family-friendly hike that we enjoyed. The trail is pretty flat until the final descent into the cave. The cave is a fun place to play and has beautiful views of the Sedona area. Be sure to download the coordinates of the cave before heading out before cell coverage is limited.

BELL ROCK TRAIL

• This is a fun area to explore, especially if you’re hiking with kids in Sedona. The Bell Rock Loop is about a mile long with lots of fun places to explore along the way. You can climb all over Bell Rock with great views of the Sedona area.

DEVILS BRIDGE

• The Devils Bridge hike is another great and popular photo opportunity in Sedona. It is a natural sandstone bridge with great views of Sedona. The trailhead is easy to access with an easy hiking trail. The only downside is the trail is about 4.2 miles roundtrip.

SOLDIERS PASS

• This is a relatively easy trail until the final descent into the cave. It is a heavily trafficked trail with plenty to see along the way like the Seven Sacred Pools and sinkhole. This is a popular hike for families.

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MORE TO SEE!

Also, don’t forget that Sedona is only a two-hour drive to the Grand Canyon. You could easily add this in as a day trip during your time in Sedona! Visiting the Grand Canyon is a must-see in Arizona!

If you are going to be exploring the area around Sedona, Page is a fun city to visit. The Horseshoe Bend overlook and Antelope Canyon are fun places to explore.
How to Visit Horseshoe Bend in Arizona
Lower Antelope Canyon – Visiting the Famous Slot Canyon

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The 6 Best Hikes in Sedona You Need to Do

Here is a list of the Top 6 hikes in Sedona. Beautiful hikes can be found all throughout Sedona.

On my list of the top 6 hikes in Sedona, you'll find everything from a simple walking route to a heart-pumping hike up a mountain.

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Check out this Web Story!

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Top 6 Hikes in Sedona

Let's Get Into it

Cathedral Rock Trail

Cathedral Rock Hike (SEE TRAIL GUIDE HERE)

One of the best hikes in Sedona is Cathedral Rock. This hike is short and quick, and it's a lot of fun from start to end, with some rock scrambling and jaw-dropping views.

Expect no solitude on this trail due to its popularity. The hike to Cathedral rock and the reward of panoramic vistas are the highlights of this adventure.

On a much greater scale, it's very similar to the bell rock climb. You'll hike and scramble your way up to Cathedral rock from the trailhead until you reach the saddle between the sandstone massive spires. 

Pro Tip: This is one of the most popular hikes in Sedona and getting a parking space can be a real challenge, so get there early.

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Devils Bridge

In Sedona, this is a very popular hike. Hundreds of people hike to the bridge every day to take photos of the vistas and even propose.

Devils Bridge is only a 2-mile round-trip hike from the trailhead. It's largely level and fast, with a few series of inclines and stone steps right before reaching the bridge.

Getting to the trailhead is the tricky part. The Devils Bridge Trailhead is located on a dirt road that requires a high clearance vehicle to access. If you don't have a 4x4, you'll have to walk down Dry Creek Road from the Mezcal Trailhead.

Devils Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch located in the Sedona area of Coconino National Forest.

Views from Broken Arrow Trail

Broken Arrow

The Broken Arrow Trail is one of the busiest short hikes in the area, because to its convenient location on the south side of Sedona, just off Highway 179, and its proximity to a popular jeep track.

Both routes rise gently up a large valley with colorful, jagged, eroded red cliffs and buttes on both sides, terminating at a low pass (Chicken Point) with good views south to Oak Creek Canyon and north to Sedona and the high mountains beyond.

The standard $5 Red Rock Pass is required for all parked vehicles.

Bell Rock

One of Sedona's most well-known features is Bell Rock. Hiking up to Bell Rock is a lot of fun, which is why it's one of Sedona's most popular climbs.

The ascent begins with trail signs and wire baskets filled with boulders for the first.25 miles. The wire baskets vanish as you go further up Bell Rock, but you can continue hiking higher by figuring out your own route.

Rock scrambling up to the top levels of bell rock is part of the fun of this hike. It's entirely up to you how far you want to go. You won't be able to climb all the way to the summit of the rock, but you can get quite close.

It is quite clear how it received its name; it looks like a giant red bell melting into the landscape.

Soldiers Pass

There are a number of reasons why the Soldier Pass Trails is one of Sedona's top hikes. For one thing, it's a short and simple hike. But it also passes along some rad features like the seven sacred pools, the Devil's Kitchen Sinkhole, and if you can find it, the famous Soldier Pass Cave.

West Fork Trail

The super-easy and insanely picturesque hike follows Oak Creek. Because of its shady route and tranquility, this hike in Sedona is unlike any other in the area.

You stroll along the creek for virtually the entire hike and get to see how the creek chiseled away the canyon walls. It resembles the subway in Zion National Park in a lot of ways.

This is a nice hike to do on a hot day in Sedona because you're in the shade of the trees.

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What to Bring on your Top 6 Hikes in Sedona Adventures

• Footwear – Chacos
• Hydration – Camelback Hydration Backpack (Bring lots of water!)
• Camera – Canon EOS R
• UV - Sunglasses / Hat / Sunscreen

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